Knowra Phlebotomy Phlebotomy Phlebotomy is the collection of blood from a vein for laboratory testing, donation, or treatment. It includes choosing a collection method, preparing the site, and handling specimens safely.
Venipuncture : The insertion of a needle into a vein to obtain blood or establish vascular access. It is the standard needle-based method used in routine blood collection.
Venous system : The network of veins that returns blood from the body toward the heart. Phlebotomy targets accessible veins within this network.
Clinical laboratory : A facility that analyzes patient specimens to support diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment. Most diagnostic blood collections supply tests performed in clinical laboratories.
Preanalytical variability : Variation introduced before a laboratory measurement, including during collection, transport, and specimen preparation. Collection technique and timing can change results before analysis begins.
Vacutainer : A vacuum-based blood collection system using an evacuated tube, holder, and double-ended needle. Its preset vacuum draws blood directly into tubes during venipuncture.
Median cubital vein : A vein in the front of the elbow that commonly connects the cephalic and basilic veins. Its location and stability often make it a preferred venipuncture site.
Blood donation : The voluntary collection of blood or blood components for transfusion or medical products. Donation is a major use of venous collection, with procedures designed for donor safety.
Needlestick injury : A penetrating wound caused by a needle or other sharp instrument, sometimes involving infectious material. Used needles create an occupational exposure risk during and after blood collection.
Order of draw : The prescribed sequence for filling blood collection tubes to reduce additive carryover between specimens. Tube sequence helps prevent one tube’s additives from altering later specimens.
Blood specimen : A collected blood sample prepared for diagnostic testing, research, or transfusion-related procedures. Phlebotomy produces the specimen that laboratories and blood services process.
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